10 Best Budget Mountain Bikes 2025 ( Affordable Picks )

I’ve invested more than 30 hours in research and believe that the best mountain bike for people on a tight budget is the Cannondale Trail 8 – an affordable, light and durable mountain bike with a decent 7-speed drivetrain.

What makes a great budget mountain bike?

• Wheels: 27.5″ or 29″ based on preference
• Frame: Sturdy aluminum for lightweight durability
• Suspension: Reliable front suspension (hardtail)
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes if possible
• Gears: Sufficient range for varied terrain

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Best Overall: Cannondale Trail 8

Brakes: Mechanical disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 75 mm | Gears: 14-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Light and Durable SmartForm C3 Alloy Frame: This high-quality frame gives the bike a lightweight structure without compromising on durability.
2. SR Suntour M3030 Suspension Fork with 75mm Travel: This suspension system can absorb shocks from bumpy rides, making it suitable for off-road trails and uneven terrains.
3. 7-Speed Drivetrain: A 7-speed drivetrain offers a versatile range of gear options for different terrains and riding styles.
4. Tektro Cable-Actuated Disc with 160/160mm Rotors: The bike is equipped with reliable Tektro disc brakes that offer excellent stopping power under different conditions.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Uncomfortable Seat: The comfort of the seat can significantly impact the rider’s experience, especially during longer rides. Some riders have found this bike’s seat to be somewhat uncomfortable.
2. Imprecise Shimano Tourney Rear Derailleur: The Shimano Tourney rear derailleur is not known for its precision. This can result in less smooth gear changes, which could affect your cycling rhythm, particularly when shifting under load or when riding uphill.

Read the full review of Cannondale Trail 8 ( 2021 ).

Fast, fun, and available in four sizes to accommodate most trail riders’ builds and weights. The aluminum frame delivers what the company refers to as a big, stiff, and snappy ride that’s lively and responsive. 

Engineers have built one hell of a ride using the brand’s proprietary dirt-tailored geometry responsible for this trail bike’s responsiveness, so there is no worry that the affordable price will impact performance. The Trail 8 bike sails and wheels range from 27.5- to 29 inches.

Short chainstays deliver agility and reassuring traction as the wide bar, and short stem contribute to the control every trail biker needs to stay confident and sure, no matter what terrain surprises await. When things get steep and daunting, wide-range gearing keeps riders tooling along effortlessly thanks to the Suntour front suspension, 75 millimeters of fork travel, Shimano shifters, and front and rear derailleurs.

This baby is ready to tackle changing terrain on the fly courtesy of 21 gears that keep pace with changing surfaces. The mechanical disc braking system plus Ranger or Nine line tires are made to stop you on a dime if necessary; thus, this Cannondale demands a second look.

Read More: Best Mountain Bikes for Beginners

Video review of Cannondale Trail 8:

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Runner Up: Diamondback Hook

Brakes: Mechanical disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 120 mm | Gears: 8-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Low-Slung and Modern Aluminum Frame: This sleek, low-profile frame not only provides a contemporary look but also contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing the bike’s stability. The aluminum construction provides a balance between lightness and durability.
2. SR Suntour XCM with 120mm Travel: With 120mm of travel, the SR Suntour XCM fork significantly enhances the bike’s performance over uneven terrain. This feature helps to absorb shocks from bumps and rough patches, offering a smoother, more controlled ride.
3. Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc with 160mm Rotors: Equipped with Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes, the bike provides consistent and reliable stopping power. The 160mm rotors add to the effectiveness of the braking system, ensuring safety even at high speeds or in wet conditions.
4. Good SRAM Drivetrain with 8 Speed: An 8-speed SRAM drivetrain provides a decent range of gear options, suitable for tackling a variety of gradients and riding styles. SRAM components are known for their reliability, ensuring smooth and efficient gear shifting.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Slow on Flat Terrains: Due to its design or gear configuration, the bike may not offer the fastest speed on flat terrains. If speed on flat surfaces is a significant factor for you, this could be a potential downside.
2. Limited to 8 Speeds Only: While the 8-speed drivetrain offers versatility, it may be limiting for some riders. If you’re planning on tackling a wide range of terrain types, including steep climbs, or if you require more speed variation, the 8-speed limit might be insufficient.

While we agree with the reviewer delivering the prophetic quote, “Affordable shouldn’t be code for lame,” we would like to add, “Who says the two are mutually exclusive?” At $700.00, The Hook will hook you if it’s within your price range and you love a bike with a solid brand pedigree responsible for introducing models like the Line and Sync’. Even the low-slung frame will remind you of these not-so-distant cousins. 

Read more: 30 Best Mountain Bike Brands

It doesn’t matter if the terrain is tight trails, or you could be described as a maniac prone to suicidal dives down daredevil descents. Diamondback product developers and designers didn’t skimp on quality when they stipulated a fearsome 120mm fork, easy-to-operate, single-ring drive train, disc brakes that offer you stopping insurance you can take to the bank–plus quick-rolling 27.5-inch wheels.

Is it possible to mention “beginner bike” in the same sentence as “affordably priced”? It is if you like this baby. Ask owners who find the brand irresistible but always assume it is beyond their price reach.

Ready to do battle with pricier mountain bikes, the Hook has what it takes to be a star on the circuit: 8 speeds (rear derailleur, chain, and shifter), disc mount alloy front and rear hubs, stainless steel spokes, double-wall rims, and a long list of impressive specs you should read yourself to understand how much quality you get. 

Video review of Diamondback Hook:

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Best Value for Money: Trek Marlin 5 ( 2021 )

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 100 mm | Gears: 21-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Alpha Silver Aluminum Frame with Internal Cable Routing: The bike features a high-quality Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, known for its lightness, durability, and responsiveness. The internal cable routing gives the bike a sleek, clean look, while also protecting the cables from dirt and damage.
2. SR Suntour XCE 28 Fork with 100mm Travel: The SR Suntour XCE 28 fork is a solid entry-level suspension fork designed to absorb shocks and vibrations, offering 100mm of travel. This ensures a comfortable ride over uneven terrain and helps maintain control of the bike.
3. Bontrager XR2 Comp Tires: These tires offer excellent grip and durability. The tread design ensures good traction on a variety of surfaces, contributing to a stable and controlled ride. Bontrager tires are known for their quality and performance, enhancing the overall biking experience.
4. Affordable Price Tag: Despite its notable features, the bike comes at an affordable price tag, making it an excellent value-for-money choice for those on a budget or beginners who are hesitant to invest heavily in their first bike.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Shimano Tourney 3×7 Drivetrain: While this drivetrain offers a range of gears suitable for a variety of terrains, the Shimano Tourney series is one of the lower-end offerings from the brand.

Trek Marlin 5 has debuted to glowing reviews from people who ride and are not shy about being truthful when expressing their opinions. Priced at around $550, the Marlin 5 prides itself on its ability to hit the trail daily – or conquer city terrain if that’s your thing – and you can put up with any challenges your way because this affordable bike is prepared to meet them all.

Experts highly recommend them for new mountain bike riders who seek a stable yet adventurous ride while they decide if they want a more sophisticated mountain bike down the road.  The Marlin 5’s front suspension fork offers 100mm of travel (favored by a predominance of cross-country racers), flies along at any of the bike’s 21 speeds, and there are mounts for a rack that is beefy enough to hold anything you intend to drag from place to place.

Small details like the kickstand make the Marlin 5 ideal for commuters whose most exciting challenges come from avoiding street traffic on the way to work. Available in teal, matte black, and volt green, your ride will not only perform like a pro, but you could be called a trendsetter, too. Choose between 6 wheel sizes when you make your selection (they range from 27.5 inches to 29 inches).

Feel free to marvel at the lightweight Alpha Silver Aluminum frame protecting internal routing cables. The Marlin 5’s hydraulic disc brakes offer a smoother ride than mechanical disc brakes, so you get a lot for your buck.

Video review of Trek Marlin 5:

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Best for Women: Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2W Women’s Bike

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Air Fork – 120 mm | Gears: 27-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Wide-Ranging Gears with Shimano 3 x 9 Drivetrain: This bike features a Shimano 3×9 drivetrain, offering a wide range of gears.
2. Dropper-Post Compatible: The frame is compatible with a dropper post, a feature that can significantly enhance the bike’s performance on downhill sections and technical trails. While the dropper post is typically not included in the base model, the compatibility gives you the option to upgrade in the future.
3. Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The bike is equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, known for their excellent stopping power and responsiveness in various weather and trail conditions.
4. SR Suntour XCR Suspension Fork with 120mm Travel: The SR Suntour XCR suspension fork with 120mm travel contributes to a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing shocks from rough terrain.
5. Designed Specifically to Fit Women: The bike is specifically designed with women’s geometry in mind, taking into account factors like shorter torso length, longer leg length, and shoulder width.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Expensive for Beginners: While the bike has some excellent features, its price tag may be a bit high for beginners or those on a tight budget. The cost reflects the quality of the components and design, but it might be more than a novice rider is willing to invest initially.

Ratings are high, and recent price reductions make this Co-op DRT 1.2W eminently affordable for anyone seeking a quality product for under $600. If you’ve been shopping, you know this bike once came with a $900 price tag. You read that right.

As a product designed exclusively for women, this trail bike has been thoughtfully created to fit a woman’s body better. Specifically, the top tube and stem are shorter, the handlebars are narrower, and the saddle design is a female trail rider’s dream. Choose from only two sizes: extra-small and large, and just one color: Dark Vin Rouge.

Set off on whatever journey you take on this customized bike, and you will experience the difference in performance, design, and construction. The company notes that the differences may be “only a couple of centimeters, but it can make a big difference in your comfort.” The Shimano Low-profile rear derailleur tucks under the frame, protecting it from the debris acquired while racing across the landscape. 

No worries about your body being subjected to so many obstacles you can barely walk once you unmount: the 120mm front travel fork offers the ultimate shock absorption. Switch the suspension off on the fly without removing your hands from your grips as you prepare to climb your latest challenging elevation without exhausting every cell in your body.

Read more: Overview of the Co-Op Cycles

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Best with Full-Suspension: Diamondback Atroz 2 

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Air Fork – 120 mm | Gears: 9-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Atroz 6061 T-6 Aluminum 27.5 Trail Frame: This bike features a high-quality aluminum frame that combines lightness and strength. The frame is designed for 27.5″ wheels, making it suitable for trail riding where agility and maneuverability are key.
2. Shimano Acera M3000 Drivetrain with 9 Speed: The Shimano Acera M3000 drivetrain provides a smooth shifting experience with 9 gears. This range of gears allows for flexibility in a variety of terrain and riding conditions, from climbing steep hills to cruising on flat surfaces.
3. SR Suntour Raidon-R, Air Shock Rear Suspension: The bike is equipped with a high-quality rear air shock from SR Suntour. This helps absorb impacts and reduces the jarring effect of riding over rough and uneven terrain, providing a more comfortable ride.
4. SR Suntour XCM Front Suspension with 120mm Travel: The SR Suntour XCM fork provides 120mm of travel, which allows for comfortable handling over various types of terrain. This front suspension absorbs the shock of bumps and dips in the trail, enhancing the bike’s performance in off-road conditions.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Front Suspension on the Softer Side: The front suspension may be a bit softer than some riders would prefer. While this provides comfort on smoother trails and roads, it might not be stiff enough for more challenging, rough terrain, possibly affecting control and stability.
2. A Bit Heavy at 35.7 lb.: Weighing in at 35.7 pounds, the bike is somewhat heavy. While this may contribute to the bike’s overall stability, it could also make the bike more challenging to handle and transport, particularly for smaller riders or during steep climbs

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You may wonder what this Atroz 2 is doing on this list, given that the price tag on this Diamondback gem is $1,000, but everything in life and trail biking is relative. If you consider the bike brand reputation, you will likely find it a bargain guaranteed to give you a great return on your investment.

Available in three sizes (S, M, L) but only one color (Satin Blue), the Atroz 2 stands out from a crowded field of competitors by showing off perks like full suspension, extreme comfort, and unparalleled rider control. 

Read more: Why full-suspension mountain bikes are so expensive?

Shoppers are impressed by the “grippy tires” once they put this lousy boy through its paces over rugged surfaces that show no mercy. Sealed cartridge bearings are tucked into what Diamondback calls “an understated single-pivot design,” thus, durability is a given, and a smooth ride is assured.

The fact that there’s a substantial price tag attached to this bike can be mediated by looking at the company’s sterling history and quality products. You will be impressed by the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Suntour air-sprung rear suspension, and the single-ring drive train so easy to operate; you will wonder how Diamondback included these on a bike that, by all rights, should cost more.

If seeing that many zeros on a mountain bike price tag gave you pause, you owe it to yourself to do a little more investigation so you can see precisely why this product is an actual value.

Ride one. That should convince you Diamondback Atroz 2 is one of the best affordable mountain bikes with full suspension.

Video review of Diamondback Atroz 2:

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Best MTB Under $600: Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 100 mm | Gears: 21-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Versatile 3×7 Drivetrain: This bike features a versatile 3×7 drivetrain, providing a broad range of gear options. This allows riders to optimize their pedaling efficiency for various types of terrain, from steep climbs to high-speed flats.
2. 2.1” Wide Kenda Kadre Tires on 27.5-Inch Wheels: The 2.1” wide Kenda Kadre tires on 27.5-inch wheels offer good traction and control, which makes the bike suitable for a variety of terrains. These wheels and tires strike a balance between agility, speed, and stability, providing an excellent all-around performance.
3. Weighs Just 31 Pounds: The bike’s weight of just 31 pounds makes it relatively easy to handle, both on and off the trail. A lighter bike is also easier to transport and can provide an advantage when climbing hills or accelerating.
4. Powerful Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The bike features Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, providing reliable and powerful stopping power. These brakes perform well in a variety of weather conditions and can improve safety by offering consistent, controlled braking.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Shimano Tourney Rear Derailleur: While the Shimano Tourney rear derailleur is part of a versatile 3×7 drivetrain, it’s worth noting that the Tourney series is one of the lower-end offerings from Shimano.

Created specifically for off-road adventures, the DRT 1.1 not only sports a versatile 3 x 7 drivetrain, but the stopping power riders enjoy courtesy of the model’s hydraulic disc brakes deliver all the control you crave when you’re off on an adventure.

Fabricated of aluminum and fitted with 27.5-inch wheels, you get a 21-gear ride that is as powerful as a 21-gun salute. Further, the SR Suntour suspension fork promises you 100mm of travel that’s as smooth as butter. Every gear change is precise, and those aren’t just “any” brakes; they’re Tektro hydraulic disc brakes known to laugh at weather conditions, on and off-road.

Built to carry riders weighing up to 300 pounds (or slimmer dudes plus cargo), this mountain bike delivers on quality without sucking up all your assets. Ride in style via the flat handlebar and amalgam of Co-op Cycles components, including the flat bar, stem, seat post, and pedals. It’s the perfect balance of durability and style.

Video review of Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1

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Best MTB Under $1500: Marin Pine

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Air Fork – 120 mm | Gears: 11-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Tubeless Wheels for Increased Traction and Flat Protection: The bike features tubeless wheels, which offer several advantages. Tubeless tires can provide increased traction, smoother ride quality, and resistance against flats since they can seal small punctures immediately. This feature can significantly enhance your riding experience, especially on rough terrains.
2. Shimano SLX 1×11 Drivetrain with a Wide Gear Range: The bike is equipped with a high-quality Shimano SLX 1×11 drivetrain. This setup provides a wide range of gears that can handle various terrains while reducing the complexity and weight associated with multiple front chainrings.
3. Rock Shox Recon Fork Suspension: The Rock Shox Recon fork is a well-regarded suspension fork offering good performance and adjustability. This contributes to a smooth ride over rough terrains and helps maintain control and stability of the bike.
4. Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Equipped with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, the bike offers reliable and powerful stopping power. These brakes perform excellently in different weather conditions, ensuring consistent and controlled braking even at high speeds or on steep descents.

What’s not so good 👎

1. A Bit Expensive: While the bike offers several high-quality components and features, its price point may be a bit high for some. If you’re on a budget or a beginner rider, you might find the cost a bit steep.
2. Heavy for a $1300 MTB: Despite its price tag, the bike might be a bit heavier compared to other mountain bikes in the same price range. A higher weight can impact maneuverability and energy efficiency, particularly on climbs or when accelerating.

Ready to treat yourself to a 2021 mountain bike that takes no prisoners? This Pine Mountain ride shows why “Steel is real, real fun,” said Marin engineers, and we believe them when they say this bike takes hardtail adventure and trail riding to the next level.

Enjoy large 29-inch tires and trail-ready geometry at a reasonable price. The Pine Mountain 1 prioritizes value-driven durability, there are plenty of modern components, and the design is impressive. Whether your idea of a fun adventure is an all-day trail ride or you’ll increase your bikepacking opportunities, this ride is surprisingly smooth. Since you don’t have to worry about flats and punctures, you can fly over terrain with abandon.

The Marin brand is stamped on most components, so you know you’re getting quality: wheelset, handlebar, stem, locking grips, seat clamp, and saddle. Choose four sizes (S, M, L, XL) to get the fit that suits your body. Even if you’re well over 6 feet tall, you’ll feel like this ride was built just for you.

Video review of Marin Pine:

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Best for Cross Country: Trek X-Caliber 7

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Air Fork – 100 mm | Gears: 10-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Affordability Meets High-Value Construction: This bike offers a balance of affordability and high-quality construction. It’s built with durable materials and components that should last, giving you a bike that offers value for money without compromising on build quality.
2. The Ideal Entry-Level Racing Machine: The bike is designed as an entry-level racing machine. It has features and characteristics that make it suitable for someone new to the racing scene, providing an excellent platform for learning and progressing in the sport.
3. Designed to Help New Riders Master Basic Cross Country Skills: This bike is also designed with new riders in mind, particularly those who are interested in cross-country riding. Its design and features are geared toward helping riders master the fundamental skills needed for cross-country riding.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Expensive for an Entry-Level Bike: While the bike offers excellent features for new riders and is constructed with high-value materials, it may still be considered expensive for an entry-level bike. If budget is a major consideration, this might not be the ideal choice.

Brand new for 2021, the Trek X-Caliber 7 may be the new kid on the block but don’t underestimate this ride if your goal for the year is making forays into cross-country riding and racing.

Trek calls this new entry “a competent hardtail mountain bike with expert tech where it matters most.” You will call it just what you wanted from the moment you encounter the lightweight and durable Alpha Gold Aluminum frame.

Features include the RockShox 30 Silver 100mm suspension fork with lockout, lighter coil air springs that outperform competitors, and tubeless-ready wheels with wider Boost 141 hubs that increase wheel strength and offer better tire clearance.

Best of all, riders enjoy the same unique “Trek” features found on pricier mountain bikes, including internal cable routing, dropper post compatibility, and tapered head tube on a platform that is upgradeable.

The Smart Wheel Sizing system gets you the fastest wheels each of the five sizes offer (between 27.5- and 29 inches), so you don’t lose speed due to bike size incompatibility. But that’s not the most notable customization feature: The RockShox air fork cited above is engineered with a rebound adjustment. Please set it to match your weight, and you’re good to go!

Video review of Trek X-Caliber 7:

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Diamondback Line

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 120 mm | Gears: 9-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Choose from Sizes S, M, LG, and XL: This bike offers a range of sizes from small to extra-large. This means riders of different heights and body proportions can find a size that fits them well, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient ride.
2. Very Stable, Even Under Extreme Pressure: The bike is designed to be highly stable, even when subjected to extreme pressure. This makes it an excellent choice for challenging terrains or high-speed descents where stability can greatly impact safety and performance.
3. Won’t Max Out Your Credit Card: Despite its quality and features, this bike comes at a relatively affordable price. This makes it a good choice for riders who want a reliable and well-performing bike without breaking the bank.
4. An Updated Iteration of a Brand Standard: This bike is an updated version of a model that’s already well-regarded by the brand. This means it maintains the features that made the original model popular while introducing improvements based on user feedback and technological advancements.

What’s not so good 👎

1. Only 9 Speed: With only 9 speeds, the bike may not offer as much versatility in gear selection as other models with more gears. While this could be sufficient for many riders and terrains, those who ride in areas with particularly steep or diverse trails might prefer a wider gear range.
2. Often Sold-Out: Given its popularity and value for money, the bike often sells out quickly. This means potential buyers may have to wait for restocks or look for alternative models, which could be inconvenient if you’re looking to purchase immediately.

It is hard to know whether this Diamondback bicycle earned high ratings from consumers because the Line is packed with features or because the price tag is so affordable. The manufacturer boasts that the Line follows a great tradition, but it’s “no crusty throwback.” Translation: Style, components, and performance leave other trail bikes in the dust.

The uber-lightweight frame acts like a heavier bike when you need weight most. Specifically, the components that make this bike a winner begin with that modern silhouette. Still, the Shimano 1×9 drivetrain doesn’t so much move you through the gears as it does blast you with pinpoint precision.

This bike is engineered for hard-charging riders, yet the newly-added chain guide with roller makes this ride more secure, as does the SR Suntour XCR 120mm travel fork with lock-out so your climbing experiences rock. Brakes? No compromises here; you get a pair of Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

Video review of Diamondback Line:

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Best MTB Under $800: Specialized Rockhopper Comp 1X

Brakes: Hydraulic disc | Suspension Fork: Coil Fork – 100 mm | Gears: 9-Speed

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What’s good 👍

1. Single-Chainring MicroSHIFT Advent Drivetrain: This bike features a single-chainring MicroSHIFT Advent drivetrain. This setup simplifies shifting and reduces maintenance, all while providing a range of gears suitable for a variety of terrains.
2. Shimano MT200 Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Equipped with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, the bike ensures powerful and responsive braking under a wide range of conditions. This offers greater safety and control during your rides.
3. Internal Cable Routing: The bike comes with internal cable routing, a feature that not only gives it a clean, streamlined look but also protects the cables from dirt and damage. This can enhance the longevity of the components and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
4. Comfortable Specialized Bridge Saddle: The bike features a Specialized Bridge saddle, which is known for its comfort. This can make longer rides more enjoyable and reduce the risk of discomfort or soreness.
5. SR Suntour XCM 2 Suspension Fork: The SR Suntour XCM 2 suspension fork enhances the bike’s performance on rough terrain by absorbing shocks and vibrations. This can lead to smoother rides and improved control over the bike.

What’s not so good 👎

1. No Air Fork: The bike doesn’t come with an air fork, which may be seen as a downside by some riders. Air forks are usually lighter and offer better adjustability compared to coil-spring forks, which can result in more comfortable and efficient rides.
2. Quick-Release Fork and Frame (No Through-Axle): The bike uses a quick-release system for the fork and frame instead of through-axles. While quick-release systems are generally easier to use, through-axles can offer better stiffness and stability, which can enhance the bike’s performance, especially on rough terrain.

Have you given up searching for a simple, reliable MicroSHIFT single-chainring drivetrain that takes the mystery out of complexity? I just wanted to let you know that this is your solution.

The Rockhopper Comp 1X credential list includes a light, robust A1 Alloy sport frame, rugged aluminum tubes, and an internal cable routing system that is artfully incorporated into the bike’s frame so you can kiss chain slaps and derailments goodbye. You’re assured of quality suspension that gives you a license to cut loose and go a little crazy when the spirit moves you.

Control is yours via that single shifter, and the wide gear range gives you all the permission you need to conquer steep climbs. SR Suntour XCM suspension fork delivers size-specific, consistent handling, and Shimano MT200, hydraulic disc brakes, are both responsive and sturdy.

Ride the Comp 1X anywhere you want to go, whether around your town or on a full day’s adventure, remembering that this saddle has been proclaimed so comfy owners are considering fan clubs! Those 29-inch wheels add to this bike’s agile performance, and the climbs are so stable you will search for more of them! Dare we mention that some owners call the frame’s matte finish “sexy”?

Video review of Specialized Rockhopper Comp 1X:

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How to Choose the Best Budget Mountain Bikes

Are budget mountain bikes any good? 

In the last few years, budget mountain bikes have become so much better that they compete with some high-end models in terms of performance and durability. When we talk about prices, we always consider the MSRP ( manufacturer’s suggested retail price ), which is the price the manufacturer recommends. MSRP often differs from retail prices due to supply/demand and other factors.

The mountain bikes we’ve selected here cost between $500 and $1300 MSRP. If you’re willing to spend between $500 and $700, you can get a decent entry-level hardtail mountain bike like Cannondale Trail 8, Raleigh Talus 2, Trek Marlin 5, and Co-op Cycles DRT 1.1 Bike.

If you raise your budget to $800, you could get some better components on top of the entry-level models, but the significant upgrade comes with bikes that cost around or a little above $1000. For that price, you can get Co-op Cycles DRT 1.2W, Diamondback Atroz 2, Marin Pine Mountain 1 Bike 2021, or Trek X-Caliber 7. All those bikes come with air suspension forks provided by SR Suntour or RockShox.

Are full-suspension mountain bikes worth it?

If you are on a tight budget, my answer will always be this: buy a better quality hard-tail bike than a cheap full-suspension model. If you look at a full-suspension bike and a hardtail at the same price range, the added complexity of a suspended frame means big compromises made regarding components’ quality and weight.

Of course, a full-suspension mountain bike will always be much more capable and enjoyable on violent terrain. That’s why we have added the Diamondback Atroz 2 to our list. It’s the only full-suspension bike, around $1300, that we like.

All other models on our list come with a suspension fork with either coil or air-sprung. Air suspension forks are better for fine-tuning the resistance level but more expensive.

What brakes are best for a mountain bike?

All decent mountain bikes nowadays come equipped with either mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are more powerful, more effortless to use, and provide more gradual power delivery.

They’re also just better when the conditions get worse, but on the other hand, they’re expensive. Most of the bikes on our list come with hydraulic disc brakes made by Shimano or Tektro, except Cannondale Trail 8, Raleigh Talus 2, and Diamondback Hook, which comes with mechanical disc brakes. Keep in mind that modern mechanical disc brakes are good for most people, too. They’re easier to maintain and provide enough braking for touring and

How to upgrade a budget mountain bike to make it better?

Think about a dropper seat post upgrade. The performance and convenience of a dropper post are something you will appreciate once you test one. So, buy a dropper post, and you will thank us later.

Another thing you could upgrade at a later stage is tires. Many affordable MTBs come with entry-level tires, and you can easily add more grip, comfort, and rolling resistance with a better pair.